Top Universities in Netherlands: Fees, Eligibility & Application Process

Are you considering studying in the Netherlands, in the heart of Europe? You have come to the right place. Your search for the top universities in Netherlands for international students ends here! 

Famous for its innovative approach to education, the Dutch higher education system consistently ranks among the best globally. Ranked the 47th best university in the world, Delft University of Technology is one of the top universities in Netherlands, particularly excelling in several STEM subjects. Additionally, 8 Dutch universities rank within the top 200 of the QS World University Rankings 2024.

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With over 3,504 Indian students enrolled at top universities in Netherlands for the 2022-2023 academic year, there has been a significant increase compared to the previous year.

This comprehensive guide will reveal everything you need to know about studying in the Netherlands, from the 10 Top Universities in Netherlands and the popular courses they offer to the cost of studying in Netherlands.

Key Highlights

Here’s a checklist to help you navigate your study-abroad adventure in the Netherlands. This table outlines everything you need to know about top universities and the cost of studying in Netherlands. Use this information as a starting point to uncover eligibility criteria and scholarship opportunities and get started on your study abroad journey!

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Why Choose Netherlands for Your Study Abroad Journey?

The Netherlands is internationally recognised for its outstanding academic tradition, which promotes creativity and cooperation. Dutch universities are some of the best in the world, consistently ranking in the top 100 of the respected QS World University Rankings. 

Top universities in Netherlands have created intellectual environments where students flourish by strongly emphasising research and a culture of sharing and mutual support.

• Focus on Innovation: Dutch universities focus on innovation by pushing the boundaries of research in different fields.

• Collaborative Environment: Professors encourage open dialogue, fostering learning from peers and industry partners.
• International Diversity: With a global outlook, these institutions attract students worldwide, enriching the learning experience.

List of 10 Top Universities in Netherlands

Here’s a top list of Netherlands universities that are consistently recognised on the world stage. Eight of these Dutch universities have been ranked within the top 200 universities in the world and offer some of the best education programs and study opportunities in the Netherlands.

Also read: Cost Of Living In Netherlands for International Students 2024

Please note: The tuition fees above are rough estimates and may differ depending on the program and faculty.

Now that you know the tuition fees of some of the top universities in Netherlands, let’s briefly discuss student life and admission criteria at these universities.

TU Delft has a dominant position in engineering and technology with a global rank of #47 in the best universities in the world. It’s a dream place for those who want to study these fields and receive a world-class education. Its graduates are highly sought after by leading companies worldwide.

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Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is an internationally acclaimed research university offering humanities and social sciences degrees. With its fabulous student life and long history, UvA is one of the most renowned universities in the heart of Amsterdam.

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Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)

Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) was established in 1956 and is strongly dedicated to technology and innovation. It is famous for its first-class teaching, engineering, science, and technology research.

Leiden University

Established in 1575, Leiden University is the first and oldest university in the Netherlands and is considered one of Europe’s leading universities. It has a solid reputation in the Humanities and social sciences and a medical and law faculty. Leiden University is rich in history and has a beautiful campus in the centre of Leiden.

University of Groningen

The University of Groningen, established in 1614, is a top-notch research university that emphasises sustainability and society. It is renowned for its exceptional business, economics, law, and social sciences programs.

The University of Groningen harbours an energetic international community and is established in the bustling city of Groningen.

Utrecht University

Established in 1636, Utrecht University is among the Netherlands’ most significant and prestigious universities. It offers courses in practically all academic fields, including arts and humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Situated in one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands, Utrecht is known for its canals and ancient history.

Student success story: “I have always been a passionate reader and teacher of literature and language, but was deficient in research skills in the discipline. I understood that being able to do research in a chosen field of study would enhance my career and give me opportunities to contribute back to the body of literature. As my search for a suitable programme continued, a Master’s degree in Literature Today in the heart of Europe caught my attention, and I applied to Utrecht University. Fortunately, I secured a direct admission to the programme” – Rajib Ahmed, a research consultant.

Erasmus University Rotterdam

Established in 1966, Erasmus University in Netherlands is a leading research university specialising in business, economics, and law. It is renowned for being globally oriented and having strong links with business. Erasmus University Rotterdam is located in the modern city of Rotterdam.

Wageningen University & Research: A world-renowned life sciences and agriculture expert, Wageningen concentrates on sustainability and food security. It is not only one of a kind in the Netherlands, but it is one of a few. If you want to tackle international complexity, it could be your fit.

Wageningen University & Research

VU Amsterdam (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam)

VU Amsterdam, or Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, was founded in 1880 and is a research university with a strong focus on social issues and human development. It is well known for its extensive range of excellent humanities, social sciences, and medicine programs. It has a lively student life and is located in the centre of Amsterdam.

Radboud University Nijmegen

Radboud University is a university in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. It was established in 1923 and is named after Saint Radboud of Nijmegen. The university specialises in humanities, social, natural, engineering, and medical sciences.

Campus Life: Radboud University has more than 150 student associations and organisations. If you’re looking for something besides studying, there’s plenty to choose from!

University Internationalisation

The Netherlands values internationalisation, particularly in higher education. As such, the country has much to offer international students in terms of a supportive academic community and modules that develop global perspectives. 

The Bologna Process: A Driver of Change

The top priority of the Bologna Process was to harmonise the European Higher Education area. During this period, the Netherlands participated actively by implementing some profound reforms.

• Standardised Degree Structure: The traditional Dutch system has been replaced by the international two-cycle system, consisting of Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. This system makes it easier for students to transfer between universities and countries.
• European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS): The ECTS makes it easy to count and transfer credits during students’ academic activities and when they move between countries. The Bologna Process has optimised Sweden’s position as a pole of attraction for international education, study, and research.

The Bologna Process resulted in greater mobility for students and researchers, which confirms the Netherlands’ position as a hub for international education.

Pioneering English-Taught Programs

The Netherlands is renowned as a frontrunner in English-taught programs at all levels (Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD). This approach sets them apart and draws in a more diverse group of international students, many of whom do not speak Dutch. 

• Accessibility: By creating programs where language is less of a barrier, students of different backgrounds can achieve their academic goals.
• International Exposure: English-taught programs provide a rich multicultural classroom venue that helps local and international students gain more cultural experiences.
• Employability Boost: Graduates who obtain a degree taught in English gain an advantage in an international job market.

The Netherlands is a leading example for its surrounding countries in the arena of English-taught programs. In contrast to some of its European neighbours, where English options tend to be available only at the Master’s level, top universities in Netherlands offer Bachelor’s degrees conducted entirely in English. This makes them much more attractive to international students who aim to be altogether English-educated.

The Netherlands boasts a diverse range of universities, each with its strengths and specialisations. But don’t just take our word for it. Let’s delve into the cold, hard facts – the Netherlands’ stellar performance in international education rankings.

Understanding University Rankings

University rankings can be a valuable tool in your search for the perfect college. Here’s a breakdown of three major ranking systems to help you navigate the complexities.

1. QS World University Rankings

These are released yearly by Quacquarelli Symonds, known for its interest in the job market and international student happiness. It looks at how universities do regarding academic standing, employer standing, student-to-faculty ratio, and foreign student percentage.

2. Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings

With a stronger focus on research and scholarly reputation, THE rankings provide a strong sense of a university’s academic might. They consider factors such as research influence, citations, international outlook, and teaching environment.

3. Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU)

Also known as the Shanghai Rankings, the ARWU is heavily based on research output. Key considerations include the number of Nobel Prize and Fields Medal winners affiliated with the university, the number of highly cited researchers, and the number of articles published in top academic journals.

Comparison of Tuition Fees with Other European Countries

Top universities in Netherlands offer a world-class education at a relatively reasonable cost, which is a wise investment in your future.

Living expenses, of course, add to the overall cost, so budgeting is essential. However, the potential return on investment—a globally respected degree and rich career possibilities—makes the Netherlands an attractive option.

Also read: Process of Getting a Netherlands Student Visa in 2024: A Guide

Scholarships in Netherlands for International Students

The Netherlands is a popular study-abroad destination for international students. It offers a high-quality education and a unique cultural experience. Top universities and the government of Netherlands provide multiple scholarships to international students to help them pay for their education. Here is a list of several major scholarship programs in the Netherlands.

 NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship)

• Sponsored by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science of the Netherlands.
• Research universities and universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands provide it.
• Gives a decrease in tuition fee (₹4,53,620 – ₹18,14,480) for a Bachelor’s degree program or a Master’s degree program.
• Open to talented students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA).
• Selection is based on academic excellence and potential.

University-Specific Scholarships

Many top universities in the Netherlands have university-specific scholarships for international students. These can vary in amounts and eligibility criteria. 

• Utrecht Excellence Scholarships: Offered by Utrecht University to excellent students in several fields of study.
• Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (LexS): Full or partial tuition fee waivers for excellent students at Leiden University.
• Radboud Scholarship Programme for International Students: Scholarships for talented and motivated students from non-EU/EEA countries.

Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)

The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs sponsors the OKP, which provides scholarships for students from select developing countries, including India, to study for Masters at Dutch universities.

Tips for Applying for Scholarships in the Netherlands

• Start your research early: Identify relevant scholarships well before application deadlines.
• Meet eligibility criteria: Study the guidelines and ensure you meet the scholarship requirements.
• Make a standout application: Emphasise your academic accomplishments, related involvements, and motivation for studying in the Netherlands.
• Apply to multiple scholarships: Boost your odds of success by submitting applications to multiple funding programmes.

By discovering scholarship possibilities and heeding these tips, Indian students can make studying in the Netherlands affordable.

Steps to Apply for Top Universities in Netherlands

For most bachelor’s and master’s degree programs at Dutch universities (both research universities and universities of applied sciences), you can submit your application through Studielink, the official online portal. It simplifies the process by allowing you to apply to multiple universities in one go.

Here’s a breakdown of the steps in applying for top universities in Netherlands.

1. Research and Choose Your Program
   • Browse programs on university websites and Studielink.
   • Check entry requirements (qualifications, language tests, portfolios).
   • Note application deadlines and plan accordingly.
2. Prepare Your Application Documents
   • Personal Details: Passport information, contact details, etc.
   • Academic transcripts (certified translations).
   • Motivation letter (personal statement).
   • Letters of recommendation.
   • Language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS).
   • Copy of your passport.
   • Additional documents (CV, portfolio, proof of financial resources).
3. University Application Portal
   • Use university-specific portals if required.
   • Submit any additional documents or steps as needed.
   • Standard Deadline: The application deadline for most programs is typically around May 1st for non-EU students.
4. Application Fee: There are application fees to be paid when applying to Dutch universities, usually ranging from ₹6,803 to ₹9,071.
5. Application Review and Selection
   • Universities review applications and may request interviews or more info.
   • Stay updated with university communications.
6. Offer and Acceptance:
   • Receive and review your offer letter.
   • Accept the offer by the deadline and submit any confirmation fees or transcripts.
7. Visa Application
   • Research visa requirements based on nationality and program duration.
   • Universities may provide guidance on the visa process.
8. Pre-departure Arrangements
   • Finalise housing, health insurance, and other preparations after receiving your visa.

Pro Tip: Always check the deadlines for your desired programs on the university websites. Don’t wait until the last minute – give yourself ample time to gather documents and prepare a strong application.

Popular Courses at Top Universities in Netherlands

The Netherlands offers a range of popular and high-demand courses, particularly at the master’s level, that attract both domestic and international students. Here are some of the top courses and their average graduate salary ranges.

Please note: The figures given for tuition fees are rough estimates, and there are some variations among programmes and faculties. 

Cost of Living in Netherlands

Knowing the cost of living in a foreign country is vital, especially for international students with limited budgets. Preparing a budget that will set you on track and guide you in your choices is important to keep your finances organised. 

You have to take into account basic expenses like housing, food, transportation, and others. This will help you in your ideal budget, and keep you from spending too much on things you don’t need. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the average monthly expenses you can expect as an Indian student living in Netherlands.

Note: The costs mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary by location and currency exchange rates.

Also read: Cost Of Living In Netherlands for International Students 2024

Part-time Work Permit in the Netherlands for Indian Students

Indian students studying at top universities in Netherlands can benefit from working part-time to gain valuable experience, earn some income, and immerse themselves in the local culture. To work legally, international students in the Netherlands need a work permit called a Tewerkstellingsvergunning (TWV), which is applied for by the employer.

Eligibility:

• You must hold a valid student residence permit for the Netherlands.
• Your program must be full-time (at least 28 hours per week of study).

Work Restrictions:

• You can work a maximum of 16 hours per week during the academic year (excluding holidays).
• You can work full-time during summer vacation (June, July, August).
• The work must be fine with your studies.

Other Factors Alongside Rankings

When making your final decision, Leap Scholar can help you weigh rankings alongside other factors like program curriculum, faculty expertise, student support services, and the overall university environment.

Explore Your Interests

• Self-Discovery is Key: Start by self-reflecting on your academic interests. Which subjects have always fascinated you? Once you have identified your academic passion, checkmark each search along those interests.
• Explore University Websites: Every Dutch university website provides a comprehensive database of their programs. Utilise search filters to refine all programs based on subject area, degree level (Bachelor, Master, Ph.D.), and English-taught status.

Leverage Online Resources 

• Leap Scholar’s Expertise: Leap Scholar offers a comprehensive support system for students embarking on their study abroad journey. From university and course selection to application assistance, SOP review, and visa support,  they guide students through every step. They understand the financial challenges and provide expert financial planning advice, including scholarship opportunities and budgeting strategies. 
• Nuffic (Netherlands Universities Foundation): This site will become your best friend. Search for every accredited program in the Netherlands.

Visit Virtual Fairs and Information Sessions 

Many colleges and universities organise online fairs and information sessions exclusively for international students. Leap Scholar can help you identify relevant sessions and prepare questions to ask program coordinators and faculty members.

Network with Alumni

Connect with people who have already gone through the programs that interest you. Websites like LinkedIn can connect you with graduates who can share what they went through and exactly what worked for them. 

Student Support Services

• International Student Support: It’s essential to have a strong support system in place, especially during your initial transition. Find universities that offer individual services for international students like pre-arrival support, orientation programs, and continuous academic and personal guidance. 

Program-Specific Considerations

• Faculty Knowledge: Research the faculty connected with the program you’re interested in. This could be crucial to your learning experience.

Class Size and Learning Environment

• Small vs Large class settings: Determine your preferred learning environment. Do you prefer intimate and interactive lecture/discussion settings, or are you comfortable in a large lecture hall? Research various universities’ average class sizes and teaching styles. 

Summing Up

The Netherlands is internationally recognised for its reputed higher education system. It is home to several top-ranking universities and an international hub for innovation and creativity, with an ever-expanding selection of English-taught programs.

 Aside from its excellent education system, the Netherlands offers a unique opportunity to experience a multicultural environment full of inspiration and opportunity. With low tuition fees and high-quality education, studying in the Netherlands is an investment in your future.

Are you ready to begin your academic journey in the Netherlands? Leap Scholar can be the reliable partner you need to help you plan. Our expert advisors can assist you in many ways.

• Create a tailored program list: Based on your interests, career goals, and academic background, we’ll find the perfect school for you.
• Decode program requirements: We’ll ensure you know all the application prerequisites, deadlines, and test requirements.
• Create an impactful application: We’ll guide you through the application process, from the essay to the recommendation letters, and provide you with the best ways to get accepted into your dream programme.

Take control of your study abroad aspirations. Contact Leap Scholar today for a free consultation, and let’s transform your Dutch education dream into reality! 

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